Tuesday, May 09, 2017

Farron: We must reinstate post-study work visas for STEM graduates

The Liberal Democrats have made a commitment to reinstate post-study work visas for graduates in STEM subjects who find suitable employment within six months of graduating. The manifesto commitment aims to tackle Britain’s chronic shortage of workers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths. The current system has driven away talent with global students choosing to study in America, Australia and Canada who have programmes to retain talent post-study.

Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron said:

“It is ludicrous that we take in international students, train them, and then as soon as they are skilled and ready to work, the Conservatives boot them out of the country.

“British universities are world leaders that attract some of the most talented individuals from around the globe to the benefit of the UK economy. But instead of encouraging them to stay here and contribute to keeping Britain at the forefront of cutting-edge research, this Conservative Brexit Government forces them out. And all in a vain attempt to meet an artificial and unachievable immigration target.

“The Liberal Democrats want to build a Britain that is open, tolerant and united. This means bringing in and fostering talent, helping to boost our economy and keep Britain an attractive destination to study. This is your chance to change Britain's future. ”
 

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